Sponsor Statement for HB 358

House Bill 358 provides immediate consequences for individuals who choose to drink and drive. It allows police officers statewide to impound a vehicle for two days and for five days if it is a second arrest for drunk driving.

Impounding a vehicle for two days allows the individual to sober up before he drives his car away. The impoundment time helps keep the driver from re-offending immediately.

HB 358 also provides authority for municipalities to provide for the forfeiture of vehicles used by drunk drivers. Forfeiture works well in Anchorage, and can work in many municipalities, but it is problematic as a statewide policy.

House Bill 358 recognizes the tragedy and harm wrought by drunk drivers in Alaska and furthers the message that Alaska does not allow individuals to drink and drive.